Rush Hour or Smooth Sailing: The Different Routes from Bloomfield to Kinnelon

For the past few months, I've been commuting regularly from Bloomfield, New Jersey, to Kinnelon for work. During this time, I've tried out different routes, routes that were jam-packed during rush hours, and routes that promised a smooth ride even in traffic. Here's what I've discovered:

The fastest route

The fastest and most direct route from Bloomfield to Kinnelon is via I-280 W and US-46 W. This route is approximately 23 miles, which takes about 30 minutes on a regular day with average traffic. At low traffic times, this route can take 25 minutes, and during peak hours, it can take about 45 minutes.

The scenic route

For those who love to take in the view, the scenic route via NJ-23 N is a great option. This route is approximately 26 miles and takes about 40 minutes on a regular day with average traffic. At low traffic times, this route can take 35 minutes, and during peak hours, it can take around 50 minutes.

The slowest route

If you're someone who doesn't mind taking the longer route for a smoother ride, then the slowest route might be perfect for you. Taking NJ-23 N all the way to Kinnelon can take up to 50 minutes on a regular day with average traffic. At low traffic times, this route can take 40 minutes, and during peak hours, it can take up to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The shortcut that isn't

You might think that taking Pleasant Valley Road could save you some time, but unfortunately, it's not a shortcut. In fact, it takes longer than the fastest route. Pleasant Valley Road is approximately 14 miles, which takes about 30 minutes on a regular day with average traffic. At low traffic times, this route can take 25 minutes, and during peak hours, it can take up to 1 hour.

When it comes to commuting, the time it takes to get from point A to point B can make or break your day. Knowing your options and the time it takes to get there based on the traffic can make your life a lot easier. With the different routes I've tried, it's clear that I-280 W and US-46 W are the fastest and most direct, while NJ-23 N offers a scenic view. While Pleasant Valley Road might seem like a shortcut, it's not. So whether you're looking for a speedy route or a relaxing drive, be sure to keep these different routes in mind.